Each performing art form has its own set of terminology and conventions that can enhance viewer understanding and enjoyment, especially for first-time viewers. Here are some terms and etiquette tips associated with specific performing arts.
General etiquette
Here is a great video on ballet etiquette, although many of the suggestions are applicable to many arts performances.
Rochester, New York, 2023.
Ballet
A ballet is typically divided into acts and scenes, with each act comprising multiple dance numbers or segments. Here are some common components of a ballet:
Act
An act is the main division of a ballet; it is similar to a chapter in a story. A ballet may have two or more acts, each contributing to the overall narrative or theme.
Scene
Acts are often further divided into scenes. Each scene may represent a specific location, time, or event in the story.
Variation
A variation is a solo dance performed by a single dancer. It often showcases the dancer’s technical skills and artistic expression. In some ballets, each principal dancer may have a variation.
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Pas de Deux
French for “dance for two,” a duet danced by a male and a female dancer. It is often a highlight of the performance and can be a romantic or dramatic centerpiece.
Pas de Trois, Pas de Quatre, etc.
Similar to pas de deux, these terms refer to dances for three, four, or more dancers, respectively.
Corps de Ballet
This refers to the ensemble or group of dancers who perform together as a unit. The corps de ballet often plays a crucial role in creating visual spectacle and supporting the principal dancers.
Coda
A concluding section of a dance that is usually lively and fast-paced. Codas often serve as a finale to a dance or an entire act.
Grand Finale
The last segment of a ballet or act, often involving the entire cast in a final, celebratory dance.
Overture
In some ballets, an overture is a piece of music played at the beginning of the performance before the curtain rises. It sets the mood for the ballet.
Intermission
A break between acts or scenes when the audience can rest, and the stage crew can make any necessary changes to the set.
Opera
Overture
An instrumental piece that is played at the beginning of the opera. It serves as an introduction to the musical themes and sets the tone for the performance.
Act
Operas are usually divided into acts, each consisting of a set of scenes. Acts help structure the narrative and provide breaks for the performers and the audience.
Scene
Acts are further divided into scenes, representing specific locations or moments in the story. Scenes often involve changes in setting, characters, or dramatic developments.
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Aria
A solo piece sung by one of the main characters. Arias are usually emotionally charged and allow the singer to showcase their vocal prowess. They often express the character’s inner thoughts and emotions.
Recitative
Dialogue-like singing that bridges the gap between arias and other musical sections. Recitatives convey the plot and move the story forward in a more spoken, conversational style.
Ensemble
Sections where two or more singers perform together. Ensembles can take various forms, such as duets, trios, quartets, or larger groups. They provide opportunities for characters to interact musically.
Chorus
A group of singers who represent a collective voice, such as townspeople, soldiers, or spirits. Choruses often play a significant role in expressing communal emotions or reacting to the events in the opera.
Duet, Trio, Quartet, etc.
Smaller groups of singers performing together, highlighting the relationships between characters and adding variety to the vocal texture.
Ballet
Some operas include dance sequences, often in the form of ballet. These interludes are instrumental in nature and provide a visual and kinetic element to the performance.
Intermezzo
An instrumental piece performed between acts or scenes, allowing time for set changes or providing a musical interlude.
Final Ensemble
The conclusion of the opera often involves a powerful ensemble piece that brings together the main characters and resolves the central conflicts.
Finale
The closing section of the opera, which may include a final ensemble, chorus, or solo performance. It serves to bring the entire performance to a satisfying conclusion.
Apotheosis
A grand or divine transformation, often occurring at the end of an opera, representing a transcendent or elevated state.
Atonal
Music that lacks a tonal center or key. While many operas are tonal, some modern or contemporary operas may incorporate atonal elements.
Cadenza
A virtuosic solo passage, often improvised by the singer or instrumentalist. It typically occurs near the end of an aria to showcase the performer’s skill.
Coloratura
Elaborate ornamentation or embellishment in vocal music, often involving fast runs, trills, and florid passages. Coloratura is frequently associated with soprano roles.
Diva
Originally referring to a celebrated female opera singer, the term “diva” is now more broadly used to describe a female performer with a strong and commanding presence.
Divertissement
A light and entertaining musical or dance interlude within an opera, often used to provide contrast or relief from more intense scenes.
Falsetto
A vocal technique where a male singer produces higher pitches by using a breathy and head voice. It’s often used for special effects or characterizations.
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Leitmotif
A recurring musical theme associated with a particular character, emotion, or idea. This technique, popularized by Richard Wagner, helps to musically connect different parts of the opera.
Libretto
The text or script of the opera. It includes the lyrics of the arias, duets, ensembles, and recitatives.
Maestro
The conductor of the orchestra. Additionally, the term refers to a masterful and distinguished musician.
Opera House, Opera Theater, or Theater
The venue where operas are performed.
Prima Donna
The leading female singer in an opera. Sometimes, people use the term more broadly to describe a female performer who is the star of the show.
Prompter
An individual, often located in a hidden area of the stage, who assists performers by providing cues and prompts for their lines or lyrics.
Soprano, Mezzo-soprano, Tenor, Baritone, Bass
Different vocal ranges for singers. Soprano is the highest, followed by mezzo-soprano, tenor, baritone, and bass.
Supertitles or Subtitles
Translations of the opera’s lyrics or dialogue may be displayed above the stage, helping the audience understand the text even if it is sung in a foreign language.
Theater
Act
A major division within a play, similar to chapters in a book.
Scene
A smaller division within an act, often representing a change in time or location.
Monologue
A monologue is a long speech by one actor, typically conveying inner thoughts.
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Blocking
Blocking refers to the choreographed movement and positioning of actors on stage.
Conclusion
Learning the language and customs of performing arts enhances viewers’ experiences, so that they can fully absorb the grace of ballet, the operatic storytelling, or the dramatic flair of theater. Overall, understanding the terminology and etiquette of these performing arts adds depth to viewers’ appreciation.
If you enjoyed this post on the performing arts, consider reading How I Found My Niche of Professional Attire.
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